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Patented Aug. v1s,v 1936 PATENT OFFICE WATER TREATING APPARATU Eugene Staegemann, Allendale, N. J., assignor to The Permutit Company (1934), Wilmington, Del., a corporation of Delaware- Application January 27, 1934, seal No. 708,653

' 16 claims. (c1. 21o-24) This invention relates to improvements in water treating apparatus; and it comprises an interlocked battery of water softening units, each unit comprising'a container adapted to holda bed of 5 zeolites, a multiport valve adapted to control a regenerative cycle of successive phases of backwashing, brlning, rinsing, and return to softening, a motor adaptedto turn the valve through the regenerating cycle, switch means for the motor advantageously connected with a water meter in the soft water line adapted to start the 'motor in the regenerating cycle, associated control means for regulating the length of the different phases in the cycle, and interlocking switch means interconnecting a'plurality of such units and adapted to so control the circuits in the several units that regeneration takes place in spaced sequence; each of said units advantageously com- 30 trollers in the waste connections, one adapted to control the flow of backwashing and the other adapted to control the rinsing flow, and both Waste connections being adapted to carry -foff waste liquid while brine is being injected; all as 35 more fully hereinafter set forth and as claimed. Large scale industrial and municipal water. sof-` tening by base exchange presents problems which do not concern small scale or domestic softening. The principal requirements in large scale plants are that softening should be performed with the highest efficiency possible, that is, with the smallest amount of brine; that no hard water should get into the service line (this being particularly important in certain industries such as textile mills and dye-works); and that the necessity of attendance by operators should be cut down as far as possible. These requirements are best met by automatically operated softeners.

Automatic softeners may be built of smaller dimensions than the manually operated 'type for equal duty. Manually operated softeners are usually made large enough to run for relatively long periods between regenerations in order to save the operator's time by reducing the frequency of regeneration. The automatic may be smaller, regenerating more frequently, and yet produce the same daily soft water output as the larger manually operated' softener, without the 60 excessive attention v'which a smaller manual SO-` tener would require. Thus a saving in first cost as well as in operating cost is realized.

Certain railroad Water stations and other isolated plants may not have a regular attendant, but only an operator making occasional visits. 5 Large water treatment plants comprising a number of zeolite units, together with other equipment such as filters, etc., may be too much for one operator to handle efiiciently. In many factories the water softener is in charge of one man l0 assigned to a multiplicity of other duties. When he inspects the softener, he may find the softening run not yet complete but, to avoid overrunning, he may be tempted to regenerate prematurely. This wastes salt and water. other hand, the operator may not be on hand just when regeneration is required and the softener is allowed to overrun, thus permitting hard waterl to flow to service. Automatic softening elimihates these difficulties. According to the present invention I provide an automatic softening apparatus comprising a plurality of units, each having automatic operating control, and the several control units being interlocked to bring about regeneration in an automatically spaced sequence. In my automatic system, some o'f the softeners are softening while exhausted units are beingl regenerated. Thus soft water is supplied by the battery of units, without interruption. I also provide an improved `brining control, preventing Wastage of brine.

The new automatic system carries out all operations correctly and automatically. Regeneration in each unit takes place on time; never too soon or too late. Salt waste is avoided by mechanically measuring the correct quantity of salt brine. .Backwashing and rinsing are controlled, thereby avoiding waste of water in these operations and maintaining the zeolite in a clean, active condition. Control valves are automatically turned slowly, preventing disturbance of the zeolite beds. A battery of units particularly adapted yto large scale work and to automatic regeneration in spaced sequence is provided. The production of completely softened water at a minimum of operating expense is assured. The system is readily adaptable to municipal water softening and to either gravity or high pressure water flow. 50 In the accompanying drawings I have shown, more or less diagrammatically, water softening apparatus within my invention. l In this showing,

Fig. l is a diagrammatic view -partly in elevation, partly in vertical section, of one water softening unit complete with brine supply, said unit being adapted to automatic operation and control,

Fig. 2 is a view in section of the vmultiport valve of Fig. l with motor,

On the l5 Fig. 5 is a similar view, showing the 'valve in backwashing position, v

Fig. 6 is a similarview, showing the valve in f brining position,

Fig. 7 is a similar view, showing the valve in rinsing position,

Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the electrical controis for a single basic unit,

Fig. 9 is a diagram showing two units, having interlocking electrical connections, y

Fig. 10 is a diagram showing three units of modified basic type having modified interlocking electrical connections, and

Fig. 11 is a diagram showing three units of modied basic type having a central timing control.

Like reference characters indicate like parts throughout.

Referring `to Fig; l, the basic softener unit comprises a -container I adapted to contain a charge of zeolites, a brine measuring tank 2 and a salt'storage tank 3. Flows to and from the container are controlled by means of a multiport valve 4, having a connection 5 to a source of raw water, a connection Ii to the top of the container, a connection 1 to the bottom of the container, two connections 8 and 9 leading to backwash and rinse controls I ad II respectively, a connection I2 for softened water, and a connection I3 through a brine injector I4 to the container I above the top of the charge of zeolites (not shown). 'I'he valve also has a pilot line pressure connection I having a branch I5a leading to a diaphragm valve I6 in a brine connection I1 between the injector I4 and the brine measuring tank 2, vand a branch |517 leading to a diaphragm valve I8 in connection 20 between the salt storage tank and the brine measuring tank. Another branch, 2 I, is connected into pilot line I5 as shown. This branch is fitted witha restricted outlet orifice 22 adapted to discharge to waste. -Valve I6 is of a type normally closed and adapted to be opened when pressure is admitted to the diaphragm, the valve I 8 is of a type normally open and adapted to be closed when pressure is admitted to the diaphragm.

In connection I1, between injector I4 and diaphragm valve I6 is a check valve 23 with a small orifice 24 in the valve member. This check valve prevents surges of water back into the brine measuring tank 2, but `the orifice 24 normally allows water pressure to act on the valve member of valve I 6, thereby aiding to keep valve IB closed vivhen no brine is being withdrawn through line The multiport valve, as shown, is adapted-upon being rotated to a plurality of positions throughout a complete circle to make the proper connections for a regenerative cycle comprising back- Y washing. b rining, rinsing and return to softening.

sure on the backwashing and rinsing water en-v terin'g the softener. Washwater flows from the weir box to a waste pipe 28, as shown. Ordinarily it is desirable to adjust the float valves so v that a strong backwash flow, and a comparatively gentle rinsing ow, are provided; The additional advantages of providing two waste connec- 5 tions from the valve will be described later.

The brine supply comprisesin addition. to the brine measuring tank and salt storage tank, an inlet connection 29 in the salt storage tank, for water for making up brine, the flow of water being controlled by a chamber 30 and a float valve 3| maintaining a water level in chamber 30 corresponding to the level desired in the brine measuring tank 2. The arrangement is such as to prevent the brine measuring tank from overflowing, while automatically settingV a4 desired level of brine therein. Flow of brine to the injector I4 is controlled by the diaphragm valves I 6 and I8 in an operation which is described later.

The automatic control means indicated diagrammatically in Fig. l comprises a valve operating motor B0, a circuit breaker control switch 32,

a water meter A33 in the soft water line, a meter switch 34 operated by the meter, a time switch 35,

a magnetic switch 36 in a power line, and a float 25 switch 31 on the brine measuring tank. No electrical connections are shown in this view.

The valve The multiport valve is shown in detail in Figs. 2 to 7. As shown in Fig. 2, the valve comprises a ported stator 4I) and-a chambered rotor or slide 4I. The rotor advantageously is provided with a hard -rubber facing 42. A'xed port plate 43, advantageously ofbronze or stainless metal, is placed between the facing 42 of rotor 4I and the stator 40, being fixed to the stator with an interr posed gasket 44. The rotor is turned by a shaft 45, keyed to the rotor by a key '45.

A closure member 41 is attached to the valve 40 stator by bolts 48, a gasket 49 being interposed as shown. The closure lia-s ya bore 5l) through which the rotor shaft 45 runs. A packing sleeve 5I and packing 52 provide a leak proof journal, so that the closure forms a pressure-tight cover for the stator, enclosing a chamber 53. A spring 54 positioned as shown between the closure and the rotor aids in holding the rotor tightly against the stator.

The closure is provided with an upwardly extending cylindrical portion 55 havingl a bore 58 in which the upper end of the valve shaft 45 is journaled. The end of the shaft extends above the closure andis connected to the circuit breaker switch 32.

The rotor shaft is arranged to be rotated by means of an electric motor 60 which may be mounted on the valve closure. The motor turns the shaft through worm 62, gear 63, shaft 64, Worm 65, and gear B6 fixed to the valve shaft. 60 As a result of the double gear reduction the valve rotor is turned quite slowly from one position to another. This prevents sudden turning on or 01T of liquid flows, which might disturb the zeolite bed in the softener. l 65 Fig. 3 shows a valve adapted for manual rather than motor operation. In this showing the motor, worm 62 and gear 63 are omitted, and a handle 611s mounted on shaft 84. In place of the circuit breaker switch 32 of Fig. 2, an indicating 70 pointer 51 is provided on the end of shaft 45 to indicate the valve position.

As shown in Figs. 2 and 4 to 7. the valve stator has a hard water inlet connection 10 connected with pipe 5 and in direct communication with the 75 chamber 53 surrounding the rotor. Thus the pressure in the hard Water line aids the spring 54 in forcing the rotor against the stator so as to prevent; leakage at the moving surfaces. The stator also has an outlet 1| connected with pipe 6 leading to the top of the softener and in communication with a port 12 in the stator face; a back- Wash water outlet 13 connected with pipe 8 and communicating with a port 14 in the stator face; a rinse water outlet 15 connected with pipe 9 and in communication with a port 16 in the stator; an opening 11 connected through pipe 1 with the bottom of the softener and communicating with a port18 in the stator face; and a soft water outlet 19 connected with pipe I2 and in communication with a port in the stator face. In addition, the stator face has a port 8| connected with the brine injector I4 through connection I3 and a port 82 (see Fig. 6) connected through lines I5,

|50, and I5b with the diaphragm valves I6 and I8.

The valve rotor comprises a discoid portion 83 having an opening 84, and an arcuate, covered, open-bottomed chamber 85.

The several operating positions of the valve are shown in Figs. 4 to 7. In the softening position, shown in Fig. 4, hard water ows from the inlet connection 10 into the chamber 53 and over the discoid portion 83 of the rotor, through opening 84, port 12 and outlet 1| and thence to the top of the softener. Softened water flows from the bottom of the softener through opening v11, stator port 18, rotor chamber 85, stator port 80, and outlet 19, to the water meter and thence to service.

In the backwash position, shown in Fig. 5, hard Water for washing flows from chamber 53 through rotor opening 84 and stator port 18 to the bottom of the softener; and waste wash water flows from the top of the softener through stator port 12, rotor chamber and stator port 14 and through connection 8 to the backwash flow controller I0 and waste. n

hIn the brining position, shown in Fig. 6, hard water passing through rotor opening 84 enters port 8| connected through line I3 with the'brine injector and the top of the softener, and also through port 82, connected through pilot line I5 with the diaphragm valves I6 and I8. The small orifice 22 at the end of branch 2| being much smaller than the area of port 82 and pilot line I5, Water pressure is maintained in the pilot connections and diaphragm valve I6 in the brine connection I1 is opened, permitting the injector to suck brine from the measuring tank and inject it into the softener. At the same time, diaphragm valve I8 Ain connection 20 is closed, whereby the brine measuring tank is prevented from filling up during the time brine is being injected into the softener. As soon as the rotor 4| is moved tothe next or rinsing position (Fig.-

'1) the port 82 is disconnected from the water supply and the pressure in the pilot line I5 is released through orifice .22, permitting the diaphragm valves I6 and I8 to return to their normal positions. If desired, a simple constriction 0r small orifice may be substituted for the diaphragm valve in connection 20, in which case the filling up of the brine measuring tank 2 takes place slowly relative to the rate of brine injection and the tank 2 is not substantially replenished during the time ofthe brining operation. In this modification branch connection I5b is omitted. The arrangement of the separate brine injector I4 connected through the valve/.ports with the hard Water supply line is highly 'advantageous in providing automatic control of the brining operaadvantage of having the spent brine exhaustl through both waste connections at once is that this provides for minimum resistance to the flow of spent brine from the softener, so that the in` jector works -against practically zero discharge pressure. This insures efficient and positive inl jection of brine.

In the rinsing position of the valve, shown in Fig. 7, hard water flows to the top of the softener as in the case 'of the softening operation, and waste rinse water flows from the bottom of the softener through opening 11, port 18, rotor chamber 85, port 16, connection 9 and flow controller II to waste. It will be noted that the port 12 communicating with the top of the softener is but partly open in the rinsing position, but this small opening is suflicient since the controller II throttlesV the flow, assuring a gentle rinsingwhich will move the brine slowly through the zeolite, thereby providing prolonged contact between zeolite and brine. This results in efficient brine utilization.

It should be noted that all port openings and passages within the valve have a cross section at least equal to the area of the connecting piping, to avoid undue throttling. l

This multiport valve may be used to control operation of a water filter. So doing, the brine storage and control connections can be omitted and only three of the four valve positions used, viz. filtering (softening) backwashing, and filtering to waste (rinsing).

In this valve,-the entire cycle of operations is carried out by turning the valve disc stepwise through one full revolution. Manual operation, if desired, is so simplified that even an operator unfamiliar with the working of the softener and tener 'manually without danger of any mistake..

An indicator shows at all times the position of the disc.

If it is desired for any reason to bypass the softener and to supply hard water to the point of use, the valve disc may be turned to a. bypass position, which lies about half way between brining and backwashing positions, and in which hard water is passed by the rotor opening 84 from chamber 53 through port 8 0 and directly to the service line. In this position the ports leading to the top and bottom of the softener are closed andthe softener tank is entirely disconnected from the supply and service pipes.

'The -electrical controls The electrical control and operating system for a basic unit is diagrammed in Fig. 8. In the present invention the electrical circuit for operating the main motor which turns the valve is' separate from the control circuit which includes .the devices controlling the timing of the valve operation. The valve motor circuit as shown comprises the three wires |00 of a three phase alternating current line. If desired, the valve desired voltage. The valve motor circuit is made or broken by a' magnetic switch 36 operated by a solenoid or electromagnet |02.

The control circuit includes the solenoid |02, a three-.position control switch |03, the time switch 35 comprising a timing. motor |04, a twoway switch |05 operable by a cam |06 on the timing motor, the float switch 31 in operative connection with the brine measuring tank, a meter switch designated as a whole by 34, and a. circuit breaker designated as awhole by 32.

The meter switch comprises cern elements |09 4and ||0 mounted on a shaft which is rotatable in one direction by the water meter through a. one-way (slipping) clutch ||2 and a shaft ||3. The shaft andcams and ||0 are also adapted to be rotated in the samedirection by a resetting motor ||4 through a one-way clutch ||5. The arrangement is such that when the meter drives the cams through clutch I2, clutch slips, and when the resetting motor drives the cams through clutch ||5, clutch ||2 slips. The meter switch further comprises 'cam operated switches |20 and |2| as shown.

The ,circuit breaker 32 comprisesa rotatable contact-making or brush element |22 adapted to be driven by the valve operating motor 60 I through an extension |23 on the valve shaft and at hub |24, as shown. Electrical connection is made to the hub and the brush by means of a spring contact |25. Separate, arcuate contact segments |26, |21, |26, |29, |30 and`|3| are mounted concentrically around the hub and are adapted to be contacted by brush |22 during its rotation. The length of arc and the angular position of these contact segments are determined by the character of the rotary multiport valve used. Other types of valve than that shown can be used; lfor instance the types making connections for'the several regenerating operations at a plurality of equal angular positions. In this case, a different arrangement of arcuate contact segments can be provided.

'Ihevtimingv motor |04 is advantageously of the synchronous alternatingcurrent type, which requires that the control circuit be alternating current, usually of 110 or 220 volts. Other types of timing motors can, of course, be used; for instance constant speed directcurrent motors or governor controlled motors of various sorts; but it is usually convenient to use a synchronous motor and alternating current. I n cases where simple I0 or 220 bolt alternating current is not available, a small converter may be provided to supply alternating current to the control circuit. Describing now the functioning of the operating and control system, Fig. `8 shows the position of they various elements just at the beginning of the regenerative cycle and just at the end Vof the softening operation. Rotation of cam |0 by the water meter 33 has just caused automatic position as shown, current will flow through one of' the'inlet wires |3201r the control j circuit, through the control switch |03, ,spring Vcontact |25, brush |22, arcuate'member |26, wire |33, switch |`2|, wire |34,` the solenoid |02, and the other wire |32. All other 'partsvofthe control-circuit are dead at this time. The closing of the solenoid circuit eected by the meter and the valve motor rotates the valve.

and. moves on to segment |29.

switch as described closes the magnetic switch 36 and the valve motor 60 is energized and starts the valve shaft, and the circuit breaker, to rotating slowly. Brush |22 moves over segment |26, and finally reaches segment |23, which is positioned at an angular position corresponding to the valve position for backwashing as `shown in Fig. 5. The brush also contacts segment |21 at this point. As the brush slips from the end of member |26, the solenoid circuit is broken, allowing the magnetic switch to open. The motor stops, leaving the v`a1ve in backwashing position for the duration `of the backwashing stage. The brush position at this time is indicated in dotted lines in Fig. 8.

The system is now set for the backwashing operation, which -goes on for a predetermined length of time. The duration of backwashing is controlled by the timing motor |04. lThe brush |22 contacting segment |21 closes the timing motor circuit through wires |35, |36, |31, A|38 and |32 and starts the timing motor. At the same time, a circuit is established through resetting motor ||4, switch |20 and wire |39, switch |20 being in closed position and the `resetting motor being in parallel connection with'the timing motor.

A11 circuits other than those energizing the timing motor and the resetting motor are dead during the backwashing phase.

The resetting motor now turns, opening switch |2|, and continuing to rotate until' the end of switch |20 drops in the notch of cam |09, stopping the resetting motor. This operation resets the cams in proper position so that when the softening operationis resumed, the meter, turning thecams, will function to start the regenei'ating cycle upon passage of the predetermined quantity of softened water through the meter. During each complete cycle of softening and regenerating operations, the meter switch cams make one complete revolution. By changing the relative angular'positions of the notches of the cams with respect to each other, the meter can be made to initiate the regeneration cyclel switch arm |05 to drop from the raised portion,-

breaking contact at A and making it at B. The length of the raised portion associated with the speed of the timing motor determines the length of the backwashing operation.

When contactis made at B, the backwashing operation ends, andthe system functions to turn the valve to brining position; a circuit being established through brush |22, segment |26, wire |46, lcontact B, Iwires |41, |40 and |34, and the solenoid |02. 'I'he magnetic switch is thus closed, All vother circuits are dead during this turning step.

Brush |22, leaving segment |21, moves ovcr segment |20 and finally slips off |28, breaking.

the solenoid circuit and thus stoppingV the motor, Segment |29 is 'at anangular position corresponding to the proper valve position for brining.

circuit is alive during this operation.

The length of the brining operation is determined by the amount of lbrine injected into the softener from the brine measuring tank. When the liquid in this tank drops below a predetermined level, fioat switch 31 closes. This establishes a circuit through brushy |22, contact segment |29, wire |49, switch 31, wires |50, |48, |34 and the solenoid |02; thereby closing the magnetic switch and starting the valve motor to rotating the valve from brining to rinsing positions.

The brush |22 shortly contacts with segment members and |3|. When the brush slips oi the end of member |29, the solenoid circuit is broken, the magnetic switch is opened, and the valve motor stops, leaving the valve in proper position for rinsing. Brush |22 is left in contact with segments |30 and |3|.

The timing of the rinsing phase is controlled by the 4timing motor |04. A circuit is established through brush |22, segment |30, wires and |36, the timing motor and wiresA |31 and |38. All other circuits are dead in this phase. The timing motor then starts and turns cam |06 until switch arm |05, which has been resting on the depressed portion of the cam, is moved bythe raised portion back to make contact with point A Dand to break contact with point B.

Closing of contact A terminates the rinsing operation. A circuit is now established through brush |22, segment 3|, wire ISI, contact A, wires |41-, |48, |34 and the solenoid. The magnetic switch is closed, and the valve motor starts turning the valve and hence brush |22. All other circuits are dead during this operation.

Brush |22, leaving segment- |30, moves over member |3| and slips off this member, whereupon the solenoid circuit is broken and the valve motor stops, leaving the brush at the beginning of member 26, and the-valve in softening position.

A complete regenerating cycle has been performed. softening-takes place until the water meter again causes the meter switch to close the circuit starting the regenerating cycle.

The control system may be thrown out' of action, if desired, and the movement of the valve from one position to another performed at will,l

by moving the control switch to hand position. This closes a circuit through wire |52 and the solenoid, closing the magnetic switch and energizing the valve motor. When the valve has been turned bythe motor to the desired position, as shown by the position of brush |22, the control switch is turned manually to off position and the motor stops.` Y

' Advantageously, those ends of contact segments |26, |28, |29 and-|3I from which the brush |22 slips onto the next segment, are slightly raised from the plane in which brush |22 moves and the brush is made of a spring material. In this arrangement the brush snaps from the raised ends of the segments andthe circuits are broken quickly without sparking and burning of thecontact points.

When combining segments |20 and |29 into a single segment and omitting the brine float switch 31, the control is suitable for reconditioning water i'llters. Y

Both the timing motor |04 and the resetting motor I4 are preferably provided with speed reducers (which may be built integral with the motor casings) so that the cam |06 and shaft are rotated at a slow rate of speed.

It is a feature of this automatic control system that all variables are adjusted independently of each other. The number of gallons of water ,'passing through the meter in the softening run may be varied by adjusting the relative angular 5 positions of cams |09 and ||0 on shaft The duration of backwashing as wellas of rinsing may be varied by adjustment of the automatic time switch. The amount of brine withdrawn may be adjusted in the float switch. As previously explained, the ratesof flow of backwashing and rinsing are likewise controlled and are adjustable. Thus all these variables can be adjusted so that the most eflcient and economical operation of the softener results. After the adjustments have once been made, the automatic control mechanism will faithfully carry through each cycle as an exact duplicate of the i'lrst one.

Interlocking units In Fig. 9 I have shown a combination of two basic units so interlocked as to prevent either unit from going into the regenerating operation while the other unit is regenerating (even if the water meter switch sets the controls for initiating regeneration). Thus both softeners can never be out of action at the same time, though both can be softening at the same time. As shown, the interlocking system comprises in each unit an interlock switch operable by the circuit breaker brush |22 and comprising two short arcuate contact segments |60 and a contactor |6| adapted, in one position, to make connection between the two contact segments. The contactor is attached to the end of the brush |22, and insulated 35 therefrom, by means of a piece of insulating material |62. The contact segments are positioned in an angular position corresponding to the normal or softening position of the softener. If desired, the contacting members and the contactor can be arranged to be operated otherwise than by the brush; for example theicontactor may be mounted elsewhere, as on the valve shaft or on extension |23, and the contact segments arranged accordingly.

The interlock switch for each softening unit is connected by wires |63 and |64 into the wire |33 of the other unit leading from the meter switch |2| to the circuit breaker segment |26. Normally'the closing of switch |2|, upon the water meter moving cam ||0 to a predetermined position, is adapted to initiate regeneration. With the interlocking arrangement shown, however, the circuit through |32, |02, |34, |2|, |33 and |26 of one softener can only be completed when the contactor |6| of the other softener covers contact segments that is, when thek other softener is in .the softening position. Ifthe other softener isin any of the positions of the regenerating cycle, the interlock switch will be open, and regeneration inthe rst softener can not proceed until the other softener has come back to softening position, closing the interlockrswitch. In Fig. 9, themeter switch |2| of the left hand softener is shown in closed position, but vregeneration cannot start because the solenoid circuit is broken at contact segments |60 of the right hand unit (shown in backwashing position) As soon asthe right hand unit will have completed its regenerating cycle it willpermit the left hand unit to start its cycle.

This interlocking system, in a modified form, can be usedto interlock more than two softeners. In this case when one softener goes into regeneration it interrupts the control circuits for all the scribed .for thsingle unit of Fig. 8.

.in the unit B.

other softeners; that is, only one softener in a1 battery can regenerate at onetime. I'his arrangement is convenient in some installations, though for controlling more than two softeners I generally use modified forms of interlocking controls.

Fig. 10 shows a modified' interlocking system for two or more units, this system being readily applicable to any number of softener units. In this embodiment, unit AV is similar to the basic unit shown in Fig. 8, except that the control circuit |32 is shown as being taken off twor wires of the three wire A. C. power circuit |00. The control circuit may, of course, be separate from the power circuit. The second unit B is similar to the basic unit,` except that the meter switch and resetting motor, and their corresponding electrical connections, are omitted; since in this embodiment, the controls for the first unit, A, are adapted to control the initiation of regeneration in the other units.

As shown, an interlocking relay is provided between units A and B, this relay comprising a switch |10 operable by a solenoid 1|. The solenoid is connected-to the circuit breaker 32 of unit A, through wiresl |12 and ISI, and contact segment |3I; and to'the power line through wire |13. The solenoid is thus adapted to be energized -when brush |22 rests upon the contact member |3|. This position occurs during the rinsing stage. The relay switch is connected to contactl segment |26 of the circuit breaker 32 ofunit B through wire |14; and to the power line through wires |15 and |34'and solenoid |02 of unit B. 1Thus the solenoid |02 of the magnetic switch in unit B can only be energized to start the valve motor when the relay switch is closed. In Figs. 9 and 10 is shown a modified type of f'loat switch 31a in operative lconnection witha brine measuring Vtank 2.

In operation, unit A is in the softening phase until the determined amount of water has been softened, whereupon the watermeter actuates the meter switch, and initiates the regenerating cycle of unit A. When unit A'reaches the rinsing phase, brush |22 makes contact with contact seg- I ment |3I, and this closes the circuit through the solenoid |1| of the relay switch between units A and B. The relay switch closes the control circuit in unit B through segment |20 of the 'circuit breaker and the solenoid |02 of the magnetic switch, thereby initiating the regenerating cycle This -circuit is mained until the valve in unit B has been turned to the backwashing' position and regeneration proceeds as de- The relay switch opens whenthe brush |22 in unit A moves oi'f contact member |0| and on Ito segment |20, bringing unit.A back to the softening phase, where it remains until the meter again initiates regeneration.

n win be seen that s sum overiappins or regenerating 'eycles is provided` between the two units. If-desiredunitBcanbemadetobegin the regenerating cycle when unit A is in some other phase than rinsing. For instance, if wire |12 of the relay switch solenoid is connected to wire'i, instead of wire IBI, the relay switch will be energized, and the regenerating cycle in unit B initiated, when unit A isin/ the brining l position.

. Any number of units similar to unit B can be connected into the system. Connections |10 and |15 for a third unit are lshown/fin Fig. 10 with the relay solenoid in circuit with the rinsing segment |0| of the circuit breaker of unit B. Progressive regeneration of two or moreunits in spaced sequence, with a slight overlapping of regenerating cycles, is provided.

Flow rate controllers |10 are shown for both `5 units of Fig. 10 connected in series with the water meter. This is sometimes desirable in order to maintain a constant flow and to distribute the flow of water evenly through all units of thebat-l tery. If desired,-however, both the ilow controller and the meter can be omitted from the secondary units, and the flow controller can be omitted-from the primary unit A, if desired.

Fig. 11 shows a modiiied interlocking control systemfor two or more softener units, three such l5 units, L, M, and N, being shown. In this system the hregenerating cycles o f the three units are initiated in timed sequence by a central timing control. The system isvshown as applied to two units similar to the basic unit shown in Fig. 8 ,20 with one unit of a modified type similar to unit B in Fig. 10. In anactual installation this control system-is generally used with three units of the type of units L and M.' It can be used with separate from the current supply for the valve 35 motors. AThe timing control further comprises a cam shaft |03 on which are xed three contact#- making cams |00, |00 and |00. and a ratchet gear |01. The cam shaft is driven by the timing motor through a high-ratio speed reducer and a 40 :cranking device comprising a revolving bracket |00 provided with an adjustable threaded sliding block |00 shiftable in the bracket by a screw |0| and with a pair of crank arms |02 and |00 each having a pawl |00 engaging the ratchet wheel 45 |01. With arrangement'the timing motor causes the camshaft to rotate in small angular steps at a slow rate.- The effective throw" of the crank device, and thus the speed 'of 'rotation of the gcam shaft |00, are addustable by varying 50 the position of the sliding block |00.

Corresponding to the cams |00, |05 and |00- are cam switches |00, |00 .and |01, normally held4 open by spring means (not shown) and adapted to be closed by the camsin certain angular po- 55 sitions. Cam switch |00 is connected through wires |00 and |00 into the wire |00 of unit L and throughwire 200 Iinto wire |00 in unit L. Thus switch |00 controls unit L: when the meter switch |2| oi unit L closes. the circuit through 60 the starting solenoid |02 remains open,and regeneration is not to be initiated until cam'switch |00 is closed by cam '|00, completing the circuit through solenoid |02 through lines |00 and |00.

when switch' les u closed, regeneration n mimto5 Avided for shutting off theaoft water outlet from the softener at the 'end of the softening run, these 70 means comprising a diaphragm valve 20| in the soft water outlet from the water meter, this valve beingof the type adapted to close upon 'admission of pressure to the diaphragm.l The diaphragm valve is adapted to be put into connection with a constant source of pressure (not shown) through a pilot line 202. A solenoid operated valve 203 adapted to open upon energiz-'ation of the solenoid is interposed in line 202 as shown. The solenoid is connected into control wire |33 of unit L as shown and is energized when meter switch |2| is closed. An exhaust or pressure relieving outlet 204 having a small orifice 205 is provided for the diaphragm valve 20|, to allow 'this valve to open when the solenoid valve 203 is closed.

Considering now'the operation of the control system as applied to units L and M, unit L remains in the softening phase until the meter switch cam allows meter switch |2| to close. this operation taking place when the predetermined quantity of water has been softened. Upon closing of the meter switch, solenoid valve 203 is opened, the solenoid being connected into line |33 as described. Pressure is admitted to dia- While regeneration is being carried on in unit L,

unit M is still in the softening phase.

The central timing control is advantageously so adjusted that each unit would pass somewhat more water than it should-that is, would overrun-were it not for the water meter control which shuts off the soft water line after a predetermined amount of water has been softened. Therefore unit M will have reached the end of its softening phase, and will be standing idle,

by the time cam |85 closes contact switch |96. When switch |96 is closed by the central control cam |85, unit M starts in its regenerating cycle.

Any desired number of units can be controlled Fig. 11 shows as a. third unit a modified basic' unit N which is equally adaptable to central timing control. In unit N the meter and the meter switch are omitted, and also the diaphragm valve 'means for shutting off the soft water outlet. In

this unit regeneration is initiated directly by the central timing control, the cam operated contact switch |91 being connected directly through a wire 2|0 to wire |33 and circuit breaker segment |26 of unit N, and by wire 2|| to the connecting I wire |34 of Isolenoid |02 which controls the valve motor of unit N. A rate of flowfcontroller |16 maintains a constant flow rate of softened water.

In this arrangement initiation of regeneration is controlled solely by the timing motor |80 through cam shaft |83. This combination control of the rate Aof flow and of the intervals of time between regenerations assures that a predetermined quantity of water is softened between regenerations.

Any desired number of units of this type can be controlled through the central timing control, -by providing a like number of cams and cam con- SWitch tact switches. After the initiation of the regeneration cycle in each unit, timing of the several phases such as backwashing, brining and rinsing is controlled, as in all modifications of the basic unit, by the circuit breaker, timing motor and float switch.

The system shown in Fig. 11, comprising softener units of the types L and M in commotion with a softener unit of the type N, is useful in some installations. In others, it is convenient to have all the softener units of the same type. l

The central timing control switch |82 is shown as a hand-operated switch. Sometimes it is desirable and convenient to provide in the place of the hand-operated switch, or in addition thereto, a remotely operated or automatically actuated switch. For instance in municipal softeners where a large storage tank for softened water is provided, there may be provided a oat switch which closes when the softenediwater drops to a predetermined low level; and which opens'when a predetermined high level is reached. Such an arrangement is shown in Fig. l1.` A float switch 220 is provided in the soft water storage tank, the switch having contact `members 22| and 222 adapted to close a circuit through contact points 223 and 224, and Contact points 225 and 226 respectively. The float switch is connected in parallel with the manual switch |82, as shown,v through wires 221, '228, 229 and 230. The oat switch, upon fall of the level of soft water-to a. predetermined point, is adapted to be closed and thus to complete a circuit from the power line |00 to motor |80. The timing control may be started independently of the float switch coniircl, 'if desired, by means of the manual switch Large size softening plants are often supplied by a pump, drawing hard water from a well or the like. In this case it is sometimes advantageous to control the operation of the supply pump or pumps coincidently with the softeners.- In Fig. 11 I have shown an arrangement whereby when the softeners are started or stopped, the supply pump is started or stopped. As shown, a. supplypump 23| operable by a motor 232 is provided, adapted to draw hard water through inlet 233 from a source not shown and to deliver water through outlet 234 to the softeners, through VAconnections not shown. The motor is connected to the power line |00 (or to any other4 source of power) through a magnetic switch 235 normally open and closable by a solenoid 236. The solenoid is connected in parallel with power line |8| for the timing motor |80, through wires 231 and 238 as shown. With this arrangement when the predeternriiigd low level is reached in the soft water storage tank, float switch 220 closes, starting the timing motor |8| and hence putting the battery of softeners and the regeneration control into operation. Solenoid switch 235 closes, starting the supply pump 23|. Hard wateris supplied to the softeners and softened water is delivered by the softeners until the predetermined high levelin the soft water :storage tank has been reached, whereupon the float switch 220 opens and the entire plant is shut down.

'I'he central timing control may take, a different form from that shown; for example, the timing motor may be geared directly to the cam shaft, the adjustable crank being omitted; and, the cams may be replaced by a circuit breaker device similar to those shown in connection with Vthe softener units, but with a different arrangement of arcuate segmentcontacts.

, positions in the regenerating cycle, switching means for the motor adapted to control the duration of the different phases in the cycle, and interlocking means for the several motor switches adapted to be actuated by the switching means of one unit ata predetermined stage in the regenerating cycle of the unit and adapted to start the motor for regeneration in another unit when the first unit has passed through a portion of its cycle.

2. A battery of softener units each comprising in combination a container for zeolites, a multiport valve adapted to make connections for flows of water and brine to and from the container for the several phases of a regenerating cycle in different positions of the valve, an electric motor adapted to move the valve to its different positions in the regenerating cycle, a water meter in one of the water connections to the softener, a switch operated by, a meter to start the motor for the regenerating cycle, switching means for the motor adapted to regulate the duration of the different phases in the cycle and interlocking control means for the several switching means adapted to allow regeneration in the next unit to `start when the first unit has passed through a portion of its cycle, said means comprising a switch in one unit normally open and closable when said unit is in a predetermined phase of the 'cycle the switch being connected with the meter switch circuit of another unit, so that the switch means of the first unit is adapted to control the closing of the switch means of said other unit to start its regenerating cycle.

3. A battery of softener units each comprising in combination a container for zeolites, a multiport valve adapted to make connections for flows of water and brine to and from 'the container for the several phases of a regenerating cycle in dif' p the cycle, one of said units comprising in additiona water meter, a meter switch actuated by the meter and adapted to start the motor to initiate regeneration in the softener, and interlocking control means for the units comprising a current actuated relay switch in each unit connected into a control circuit of the unit and adapted to be energized and closed by'the unit at a predetermined phase of the regenerating cycle in the unit, the relay switch contacts being connected into the meter switch line of the next unit, so that the first of said units serves to initiate regeneration Ain the next unit when a. predetermined phase of regeneration has been reached i'n the -iirst unit, and likewise the second unit is adapted to initiate regeneration in the succeeding unit at a' predetermined phase of the regenerating cycle, and so on.

4. A water softener` having a container for'zeolites, a source of brine, means including a multiport valve for controlling a cycle of successive phases of softening, washing, and brining, an injector communicating with said container and adapted to draw brine from said source through a conduit, a pressure-operated valve in said conduit adapted to be opened on admission of pressure and conduit means connecting the pressure-operated valve to the multiport valve, the multiport valve being adapted to supply water connection 4to the brine injector and water pressure to the pressure-operated valve in the brine conduit whereby the multiport valve in one position thereof is adapted to control injection of a flow of brine and water into the softener.

5. A water softener which comprises a container for zeolites, a source of brine, a multiport valve `adapted to control a cycle of successive phases of softening, backwashing, brining and rinsing in said container, said valve having two connections to waste, and flow controllers in the waste connections, one waste connection and flow controller being adapted to control the rate of flow of backwashing water and the other adapted to control the rate of flow of rinsing water.

6. A water softener which comprises a container for zeolites, a source of brine, an injector communicating with said: container and adapted to draw brine from said source through a conduit, a multiport valve adapted to control a cycle of successive phases of softening, backwashing, brining and rinsing in said container, said valve having two connections to waste. and flow controllers in the waste connections, one waste connection and flow controller being adapted to control. theA adaptedto make connections for ows of waterand of ybrine to and from the container for the several lphases of a regenerating cycle in different positions of the valve, an electric motor adapted to 'turn the valve to its different positions and switching means for the motor adapted to regulate the durations of the different phases in the cycle, the central timing control comprising a plurality of contact switches respectively connected into the switching circuit of each softener, said contact switches normally being open, actuating means common to said switches and adapted to temporarily close said switches at successive spaced intervals" of time, so that the respective motors are started in one softener after another at said spaced intervals. p

' 8. A battery of softener units having a central timing control adapted-to initiate regenerating cycles in the several units in spaced sequence, each ,softener unit comprising a container for zeolites, valve'means adapted to make connections for flows of water and of brine to and from y I the container for the usual phases of a regenerating cycle in dierent valve positions, and electrical control means for the valve means adapted to regulate'the duration of the different phases in the cycle, the central timing control compris-- n contact switches at spaced intervals of time andbeing provided with means adapted to be actupower means for actuating said switch-closing means, whereby the vcentral timing control is adapted to initiate regeneration directly in each softener,unit at spaced intervals of time.

9.- The apparatus of claim 8 wherein a storage reservoir is provided `to receive softened water from the softeners, and a iioat switch is provided in the reservoir and connected in series with the power means for the timing control so that .the float switch, when the level of water in the reservoir drops to a predetermined low level, is adapted to put the timing control into operation.

10. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein a supply pump driven by a motor is provided for supplying hard water to the softeners, a switch is provided adapted to control the motor, and means are provided so that the timing control upon going into operation is adapted to actuate the motor control switch.

11. Automatic regenerative base exchange water softening apparatus comprising valve means adapted to make connections for the several iiows of water and of brine in a regenerating l said -timing switch motor and a rotary circuit -switch control circuit at predetermined time intervals and thus to determine the yduration of the several flows in the regenerating cycle.'

12. A battery of water treating units, each unit having a container for water treating material and conduits for passing flows of water to be treated and of reconditioning iluid through the.

container, .valve means in said conduits adapted to control said flows, power means adapted to actuate the valve means to make connections for a cycle of reconditioning operations and return to water treating, a power supply for each power means and means for initiating operation' of the power means of each unit independently of the other units, each unit having means operated by its power means during reconditioning operatively .connected with the means for initiating operation of the power means of other units and interrupting the power supply to the power means except atone denite setting oLthe power means, so as to prevent operation of the power means of other units of the battery during reconditioning of the said unit. i 13. A battery of water treating units, each uni having a container for water treating material and conduit connections for passing ilows of' ated during reconditioning' and to prevent operation of the power means of other units in the battery during reconditioning of one unit.

14. A battery of water treating units having in each unit a multiway valve'adapted on operation to make connections for a plurality of serial water treating stages and a valve operating motor in each unit, a common power circuit having branches leading to each of the valve operating motors, an electrically operable switch in each of said branches for stopping and starting the valve operating motor in each unit, avcircuit making and breaking switch in each unit driven by the valve 'operating motor, a second switch vin each unit, a rotary electric timing motor for operating said second switch, a control power circuit common to all units and distinct from the valve operating motor power circuit and including said timing motors, said second switches, said circuit breakers and said electrically operable switches in the several units so connected that the circuit breaker and the second switch of each unit cooperate to start and stop the valve operating motor in each unit at predetermined intervals corresponding to the several water treating stages, normally `open switch contact means in the control circuit in each unit, and interlocking switch control means operating to close said switch contact means and adapted to start the valve operating motor of one unit at a predetermined interval after the start of the valve operating motor of another unit and thus to additionally control said plurality of operating stages in each unit..

15. The apparatus of claim 7 in which the central timing control comprises a plurality of y rotating members and a plurality of xed contact 16. Automatic regenerative' base exchange y water softening apparatus comprising valve means adapted to make connections for the several ilows of water and of brine in a regenerating cycle, a Arotarv electric motor for operating the valve means, a power circuit for energizing the motor, an electrically operated switch for controlling the power circuit, 'a separate. control c ircuit for `energizing said power switch to close the powery circuit, a water meter in communication with the valve, switch means included in said separate control circuit. and operated by the waterv meter, so that the water meter initially closes the power circuit, a motor operated timing switch in said separate control-circuit, a brine measuring tank. provided with a oat switch in circuit with said timing switch motor .and a,rotary circuit breaking switch in circuit with said timing switch l and adapted to be operated by the valve operating motor under control of the timing switch and said iloat switch to close and open the valve motor switch control circuit-at predetermined time in-` tervals and thus to determine the duration of the several flows in the regenerating cycie.

EUGENE S'IAEGEMANN. 

